Frame as a commonly shared transitional object: Reflections on remote analysis/teleanalysis and the corona crisis using a case example

This paper attempts to use Winnicott's theory of the transitional object to develop a concept of the psychoanalytic frame as a transitional object commonly shared by analyst and analysand. The process of creating the frame, often neglected in theories, is characterized by different phases. After the interview, a phase is postulated in which the symmetrical aspects of the analytic relationship are considered crucial for the formation of a frame: the commonly shared transitional object. In a following phase, the asymmetry of the relationship is considered significant: the analyst takes over the protection of the frame. Using the example of a patient who called by telephone from a moving car during his session, reflections will be made about teleanalysis/remote analysis and the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic for psychoanalytic treatment techniques. Finally, the need for considerations about a psychoanalytic media theory with reflections on the medium "telephone" is emphasized.